Discover your next great read with our book reviews
Cover of America's Crisis of Values

America's Crisis of Values

by Wayne E. Baker

Book Details

Publisher:Princeton University Press
Published:2013-10-31
Pages:327
Format:BOOK
Language:en

Reading Info

About This Book

Is America bitterly divided? Has America lost its traditional values? Many politicians and religious leaders believe so, as do the majority of Americans, based on public opinion polls taken over the past several years. But is this crisis of values real? This book explores the moral terrain of America today, analyzing the widely held perception that the nation is in moral decline. It looks at the question from a variety of angles, examining traditional values, secular values, religious values, fa

Our Review

This timely examination of America's moral landscape tackles the pervasive belief that the nation is experiencing a crisis of values, analyzing whether this perceived moral decline reflects reality or political rhetoric. Baker systematically dissects public opinion data and cultural narratives surrounding traditional values, secular perspectives, and religious frameworks that shape contemporary American identity. The book moves beyond surface-level political talking points to investigate how competing value systems actually coexist and evolve within modern society. Through rigorous analysis of decades of polling data and cultural indicators, it challenges readers to question assumptions about national unity and division.

What distinguishes this work is its evidence-based approach to emotionally charged debates about American values and moral direction. Rather than reinforcing partisan divides, Baker provides the analytical tools to understand how different value systems actually function across religious, political, and cultural groups. Young adults navigating complex social landscapes will appreciate the data-driven perspective that cuts through ideological noise. The book ultimately offers a more nuanced understanding of American moral identity that transcends simplistic narratives of decline or progress.

Themes

Social Science

Subjects

Social Science